What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade creamed spinach is a creamy, comforting treat that’s perfect for any meal. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make, even on busy nights.
- It’s rich and flavorful, thanks to a blend of garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- It’s a great way to sneak in some greens without sacrificing taste.
- You can customize it with your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.
Recipe
Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that combines the richness of cream with the freshness of spinach, creating a comforting and flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 16 ounces fresh spinach leaves, washed and trimmed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and onion, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to combine, cooking for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Add the nutmeg, salt, and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the spinach in batches, stirring until wilted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
- If using, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Notes:
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Fresh spinach can be replaced with frozen spinach; thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.
Equipment:
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Whisk
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
Creamed spinach is a nutritious dish packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 350mg |
| Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Vitamin A | 50% DV |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
| Calcium | 20% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade creamed spinach with a juicy grilled steak—it’s a classic combo that never disappoints. If you’re looking for something lighter, try pairing it with roasted chicken, which balances the richness of the spinach perfectly. Either way, you’ll have a meal that’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
Grilled Steak Pairing
When I’m grilling a steak, I always think about what’ll make the meal feel complete, and that’s where sides like creamed spinach come in. Its creamy, rich texture pairs perfectly with a juicy, charred steak, balancing the meal with a touch of green. I love how the earthy flavor of spinach complements the boldness of the meat without overpowering it. Sometimes, I’ll add a baked potato or a crusty bread roll on the side, but the creamed spinach is always the star. It’s simple, elegant, and makes the whole plate feel like a special treat.
Roasted Chicken Combo
Though roasted chicken is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can turn a simple meal into something truly satisfying. I love serving it with creamy mashed potatoes—they soak up the chicken’s juices perfectly. A bright, tangy salad adds freshness, balancing the richness. Sometimes, I’ll toss roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts with olive oil and herbs for a hearty touch. Creamed spinach is another favorite—it’s rich and smooth, complementing the chicken beautifully. Don’t forget warm, crusty bread to mop up every last bite. These combos make dinner feel special, even on a busy weeknight.
